SFSU biochemistry students Thelma Mora and Veronica Vassilieva have been selected as Genentech scholars for 2004-05. They will receive funding toward their education as well as an opportunity to work with top scientists during an internship at the renowned biotech company. Each was selected for her demonstrated academic performance, leadership, community service and career aspirations in the field of science.

Mora, who received a $2,000 scholarship, will enter SFSU this fall after studies in cell and molecular biology at Skyline College. Fluent in English, Spanish and French, she is a tutor at the College of San Mateo where she helps students with dyslexia. Mora annually collects toys, clothing and cash for an orphanage in Mexico, a project that she began on her own while attending school in Colima, Mexico.

Vassilieva, the recipient of a $5,000 scholarship, is a candidate for a bachelor's degree in biochemistry as well as cell and molecular biology. A native of St. Petersburg, Russia, Vassilieva is a research assistant in the division of biomaterials and bioengineering at University of California, San Francisco and is a state certified x-ray technician and member of the SFSU pre-health profession group.

Cynthia Cervantes, who received a bachelor's degree in education last spring, was one of five college students in the United States selected as a finalist for the American Eagle Outfitters Spirit of Service Award. Each year the sportswear manufacturer selects five students who demonstrate dedication and community commitment through Jumpstart, a national early literacy organization. Cervantes enjoyed her work with preschoolers so much she is now a Jumpstart team leader in the Bay View Hunter's Point district of San Francisco.

Cervantes, who has always wanted to be a teacher, says, "I want to help other college students see the value of building relationships with students."

Essays by Cervantes and the other finalists can be read on the American Eagle Outfitters Web site. After a nationwide vote, the writer of the winning essay will secure a $2,000 donation to the Jumpstart program of their choice. SFSU was Jumpstart's first university affiliate and is considered one of the top model programs in the United States.

-- Denize Springer